ANTHONY PLASCENCIA/THE STAR Things continue to look up for pole vaulter Luigi Colella, who is training in Italy this summer.

Ventura County Star

ANTHONY PLASCENCIA/THE STAR Luigi Colella stretches during a practice at Thousand Oaks High. After sitting out until April 1 because of transferring from Westlake, Collela made up for lost time by winning a state championship in the pole vault.

Ventura County Star

ANTHONY PLASCENCIA/THE STAR Luigi Colella beat the heat and the rest of the competition to become the first Ventura County pole vaulter to win a state title in 67 years.